Is Your Sunfire or GM Vehicle Running Rough?
Are you dealing with a persistent Check Engine Light, erratic engine behavior, stalling, or a no-start condition? As a technician with over two decades of experience under the hood, I’ve seen these symptoms countless times. Often, the root cause isn’t a sensor or a mechanical part, but the vehicle’s central computerโthe Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This component is the brain of your engine, and when it fails, it can create a cascade of frustrating and hard-to-diagnose problems.
The Direct Solution: A VIN-Programmed PCM
This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a complete, ready-to-install solution. We take this genuine GM service module, part number 16245305, and flash it with the latest official GM software updates specifically for your vehicle. All we need is your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at checkout. This critical step ensures that the module communicates perfectly with your car’s engine, transmission, and security system, just as it did from the factory. You get a reliable part that’s ready for a simple, direct installation without needing an expensive trip to the dealership for programming.
A Technician’s Real-World Experience
A customer’s 1998 Chevy S10 with the 2.2L engine came into my shop last month. It would crank but never start, and the owner had already replaced the fuel pump and ignition module. The diagnostic codes were all over the place. After confirming spark and fuel pressure were good, I used a noid light on the injector harnessโno pulse. This is a classic failure I’ve seen on dozens of these GM vehicles. The injector driver circuit inside the original PCM had failed. We installed one of our VIN-programmed modules, and the truck fired up on the first turn. This part saved the customer from hundreds more in diagnostic fees and incorrect parts.
Common Symptoms of a Failing PCM:
- โ Persistent Check Engine Light (CEL)
- โ Engine stalling or stumbling for no apparent reason
- โ Harsh or erratic automatic transmission shifting
- โ Complete no-start condition (engine cranks but won’t fire)
- โ Poor fuel economy and loss of power
- โ Communication errors with diagnostic scan tools
Easy Installation for Your 1997-1999 Sunfire PCM
You can get your vehicle back on the road without specialized tools. This module is typically located in the engine bay, making it accessible for a straightforward swap.
- Safety First: Disconnect the negative terminal from your vehicle’s battery.
- Locate the PCM: On most compatible vehicles like the Sunfire, Cavalier, and S10, the PCM is found on the passenger side of the engine compartment.
- Disconnect Connectors: Carefully unclip the wiring harness connectors from the old module. Inspect the pins for any corrosion or damage and clean them if necessary.
- Remove the Old Module: Unbolt the old PCM from its mounting bracket.
- Install the New Module: Bolt your new, pre-programmed PCM into place.
- Reconnect Everything: Securely plug the wiring harnesses back into the new module and reconnect your battery terminal.
- Final Check: Turn the key to the ‘On’ position for 10-15 seconds before starting the engine. This allows the system to initialize. Start your vehicle and enjoy restored performance.
Guaranteed Compatibility
This module is a direct replacement for service part numbers 16228016, 8162280160, and 16245305. It is confirmed to fit the following vehicles:
- Pontiac Sunfire: 1997-1999
- Chevrolet Cavalier: 1997-1999
- Chevrolet S10 / GMC Sonoma: 1997-2000 (2.2L Engine)
- Chevrolet Malibu: 1997-1999 (2.4L Engine)
- Pontiac Grand Am: 1997-1999 (2.4L Engine)
- Oldsmobile Achieva: 1997-1998 (2.4L Engine)
- Buick Skylark: 1997-1998 (2.4L Engine)
- Isuzu Hombre: 1996-2000 (2.2L Engine)
Don’t let a faulty computer keep you off the road. Order today, provide your VIN, and we’ll ship a fully programmed, ready-to-install PCM directly to you.